There are many species of the hibiscus plant across the world including across Africa. The most common variety used in zobo drink both in Nigeria and across the world, is called roselle. Beyond Africa, hibiscus rosa-sinensis is also described as having a number of medical uses in Indian Ayurveda.
Hibiscus tea is made by steeping dry hibiscus / zobo leaves in boiling water, and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. It has a sour taste, so it is known as sour tea, having a flavour similar to cranberry juice.
In the Caribbean, a hibiscus drink called sorrel is made by adding ginger, sugar and rum to the hibiscus brew. Though, it is advised that anyone seeking to gain any health benefits from a hibiscus tea does not add anything with negative dietary effects such sugar or alcohol to the drink.
The Zobo drink, is also known as Hibiscus tea is one of the world most popular beverages and it originated from Nigeria. The
drink is made from Hibiscus Sabdariffa leaves [dried Roselle leaves], and it is often used as a medicinal tea.
The English name of Zobo is Hibiscus sabdariffa tea or drink.
Zobo is a Hausa word is in the Hausa language for the edible plant that is used to make the drink.
It acts as anti-aging because of Vitamin C and anthocyanins in its juice.
It helps with weight loss and the reduction of bad cholesterol.
Furthermore, it boosts kidney and liver performance.
It helps reduce general body pains (menstrual pains especially).
It is rumored to help patients with liver damage, leukaemia and hypertension, because of its high content of
protocatechuic acid
Zobo drink is very rich in fibre, hence, it aids in weight loss.
Another good thing about the zobo drink is that it is easy to prepare and has a simple recipe.